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Isuzu Truck UK has unveiled its all-new line-up of vehicles between 3.5 tonnes and 18 tonnes, promising swift delivery and three-year/unlimited mileage warranties. The move means that Hatfield-based importer is venturing above the 7.5-tonne barrier for the first time, with rigids plated at 11 tonnes, 12 tonnes, 15 tonnes and 18 tonnes.

"Customers will be able to take delivery of the new 3.5- and 7.5-tonners almost immediately," says managing director Nikki King. "The 11- and 12-tonners  should arrive in June/July with the 15- and 18-tonne models scheduled for arrival in November/December." Speed of delivery should give Isuzu an edge over its rivals, still struggling with long lead times in many cases. "If somebody tells us in August that they want one hundred 18-tonners, then they'll have them come late autumn," says marketing director Keith Child.

He believes the 11- to 18-tonners will appeal to existing Isuzu customers who want to stay with the marque, but need heavier vehicles than have been available up until now. "Target markets include local authorities and the construction industry," he says. The 11- and 12-tonners could have a niche application as refuse collection chassis. Everything apart from the Grafter 3.5-tonner will be marketed under the Forward banner, and all models are covered by the same three-year/unlimited mileage warranty.

All the newcomers feature a new, roomy, cab too - some derivatives are available with crewcabs - along with a  package of standard equipment that includes electric windows, airbags, a radio/CD player and keyless entry. The 18-tonner employs a 7.8-litre, six-cylinder engine at either 260hp or 300hp. The 260hp version is fitted to the 15-tonner too, while a 240hp variant is used in the 12-tonner. The 7.5- and 11-tonners take a four-cylinder 5.2-litre engine at 190hp and 210hp respectively.

The former comes with an Easyshift semi-automatic gearbox as standard that is available on the latter too. At 3.5 tonnes, 5 tonnes, and 6.2 tonnes, a 150hp 3-litre engine is used. EGR to Euro 4 requirement is standard on everything. Isuzu is planning for annual sales reaching 5,000 units over the next three years - more than twice this year's target, according to Isuzu Motors Japan executive vice president Goro Shintani.